For many of us, our morning routines just aren’t complete without the perfect mug of coffee. Hot, strong and full of that much-needed caffeine, coffee is something many of us “can’t live without.”
Known for its health benefits, including increasing performance and energy levels, boosting metabolism, and even helping us live longer, coffee is full of antioxidants that are crucial to our health and well-being.
But have you ever just wanted to shake up that morning routine a little?
Well, now you can with these top ideas from various coffee cultures around the world.
1. Add a Touch of Spice with a Cafe Touba from Africa
This coffee originated in Senegal and is made by infusing Arabica coffee with cloves and Ginae black pepper. Not only will this boost your mood by acting as an anti-depressant but it is also said to help with respiratory issues (like asthma) and can relieve stomach aches.
To make, simply roast the coffee along with the additional ingredients, add boiling water, filter the coffee, and repeat a few times before adding sugar to your taste.
2. Go Decadent with a Pharisäer from Germany
Fancy something a little more indulgent in the morning? Then, the Pharisäer from Germany is just the ticket. You make it by teaming your favourite coffee with rum and sugar before topping it all off with a good dollop of whipped cream. Then, for the finishing touch, grate some chocolate over the top.
3. Make It Sweet with the European Eiskaffee
If you’ve got a sweet tooth and coffee with a few cubes of sugar doesn’t really do it for you, the European Eiskaffee is perfect. In fact, this coffee is so sweet and delicious, it should almost be referred to as a dessert.
To make, put two scoops of vanilla ice cream in your favourite mug before pouring a cup of coffee over the top. Finish with some whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate chips. Then, sit back, relax and enjoy!
4. Mix the Sweet and Strong with a Vietnamese Ca Phe Da
This is an iced coffee but with a deliciously sweet twist. It’s made using a small drip filter through which intense black coffee is poured over the top of condensed milk and ice. This gives the coffee a wonderfully sweet flavour but without detracting from the strength of the coffee.
5. Refresh Yourself with a Mazagran from Portugal
If it’s a warm day, your feeling thirsty or fancy a change from iced tea, the Portuguese Mazagran may be just what you’re looking for. Although this drink did start out in Algeria, it was the Portuguese who added the lemon flavouring instead of just water.
It’s made using lemon soda, lemon juice and a shot of espresso and is served over ice for a lovely, cool, fresh beverage.
So, tomorrow morning, give your usual coffee a twist and try one of these fabulous coffees from around the world.